News  Commissioner Emily Bailey takes Oath of Office

Boston — Department of Mental Health (DMH) Commissioner Emily Bailey took the Oath of Office with Governor Maura Healey on Monday, May 11, 2026. Since joining DMH in April, Commissioner Bailey has been busy engaging with staff, visiting agency programs, and connecting with community and stakeholders at various events across the Commonwealth.

Prior to joining DMH, Commissioner Bailey most recently served as Senior Vice President at Commonwealth Care Alliance, where she led clinical strategy, operations, and innovation for populations with complex medical and behavioral health needs.

Her prior public sector leadership includes serving as Chief of Behavioral Health at MassHealth, where she oversaw statewide behavioral health policy, program design, and implementation. She played a central role in major system reforms, including the launch of the Community Behavioral Health Centers, and expansion of community‑based crisis services.

Commissioner Bailey has dedicated her career to transforming complex systems to deliver integrated, person‑centered mental health care for individuals with mental health needs, disabilities, and social risk factors. She plans to leverage her extensive expertise and unwavering commitment to drive innovation at the Department, and ensure more equitable and effective behavioral health outcomes.